A joint team of state agencies has launched an urgent investigation into a fish mortality incident at the Tema Shipyard, following the discovery of dead fish in the area earlier this week.
The investigation involves the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Fisheries Commission, Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA), and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service.
According to a joint statement issued on Thursday, April 9, 2026, the incident was first observed on April 6, when dead fish were found concentrated within a 50-metre radius of the main unloading ramp at the facility.
Security personnel reportedly detected the situation between 5:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., prompting an immediate response.
“Dead fish were found concentrated within a 50-metre radius of the main unloading ramp. A rapid-response team comprising FDA inspectors, police officers, and Tema Port officials have since been collaborating to establish what might have caused this,” the statement said.
Authorities have collected between 60 and 80 fish samples, along with water samples from the affected area, for urgent laboratory analysis to determine the cause of the mortality.
Preliminary findings, however, indicate no signs of deliberate sabotage or an immediate public health emergency.
Despite the initial assessment, regulators have issued a precautionary advisory urging the public to refrain from harvesting, purchasing, or consuming fish and seafood from the Tema Shipyard and nearby areas until further notice.
The Food and Drugs Authority stated that fish sourced from certified cold-chain markets outside the affected zone remains safe for consumption when properly cooked to an internal temperature of at least 63°C.
Members of the public who may have consumed fish from the affected area and are experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, or skin irritation have been advised to seek immediate medical attention.
Health professionals are also being urged to consider possible exposure to contaminated seafood when treating such cases.
Authorities are encouraging citizens to report any sightings of dead or distressed fish through the FDA hotline (0551 112 224/5) or at the nearest FDA office.
The joint task force also called on the public to rely solely on official communication channels for updates as investigations continue.
Officials say the situation is being treated with urgency, given its potential implications for public health, marine life, and the local fishing industry.
Further updates are expected once laboratory results are completed and the exact cause of the incident is determined.
Source: Wesleyannews.com
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